Northern Ireland Federation of Clubs

The Federation exists to cater for the needs of private member non profit-making clubs in Northern Ireland.  Acting as a lobbying body in all matters related to legislation and regulations pertaining to clubs they have seen their profile increase in recent years, due to their endeavours to have the harsh legislation, placed on the club sector, reduced to create a more level playing field.  Other sectors are afforded the benefit of working within the established business and accountancy format, in line with the recommendations of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, something the club sector would find more acceptable.

An Executive Committee established on a basis which reflects all the traditions within Northern Ireland society, is headed by John Davidson, Chairman, Bob McGlone, Secretary, David Larmour, Treasurer and Harry Beckinsale, Public Relations Officer. In addition area representatives, located throughout the province include,

Brian McCartney (assistant Chairman), Jim Hanna (assistant Treasurer), Billy Kane (assistant Secretary), Raymond Connor, Thomas McMinn, Gerry Gallagher, Jim Wilson, Philip Mallon, Joe Patterson, Dessie Moore and Joe Elwood.

The greater Belfast area is, as one would expect, the major area in which clubs are located.

Benefits of membership of the Federations include a legal advice service, four helplines, available on a 24-hour basis, club insurance through specialist club insurance company Rollins Club Insurance, Linenhall Street, Belfast.

The annual membership fee remains at only £50.

Successes secured to the benefit of clubs include the matter of Corporation Tax on associate members trading. This was contested by H.M. Inland Revenue with the outcome being unchallenged.

Numerous items are currently on our agenda. These include  requirements attached to obtaining/renewing an entertainments licence. In this regard we are supported by leading companies who specialise in the refurbishment of club premises, such as Classic Interiors etc. The Federation is also representing the private member club sector in the current review of the licensing legislation.

Editorial on numerous important issues, related to clubs, are published in each issue of CLUB REVIEW, the official voice of the Northern Ireland Federation of Clubs. Other editorial items feature the minutes of executive meetings and meetings in which Federation delegates are involved in debate on behalf of member clubs.